Each other or Eachother: Which Is Correct?
Updated · Which One Is Correct editorial team
Quick answer: When asking about the difference between each other and eachother, the rule is simple: each other is the correct spelling. Using eachother as a single word is a common mistake that does not follow standard English conventions. This guide explains why the two-word version is the only acceptable form for describing mutual actions or relationships between two or more parties.
The Short Answer
The verdict is that each other is correct while eachother is a misspelling because the phrase must always be written as two distinct words.
People often confuse them because the words look similar and are frequently typed together quickly, but the grammar rule requires a space between each and other to function correctly.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Form | Status | Use it when |
|---|---|---|
| each other | Correct | Use for mutual actions or feelings between people or groups |
| eachother | Incorrect | Do not use this as it is not a valid word in standard English |
| Part of Speech | Reciprocal Pronoun | Functions as a pronoun referring back to the subject |
| Usage Region | Global Standard | Accepted in American British and all other standard English varieties |
Correct Example Sentences
- The two friends helped each other finish the project on time.
- They looked at each other and smiled warmly across the table.
- Please do not ask your neighbors to borrow from each other without permission.
- The students turned to each other to share their answers quietly.
- These companies often compete with each other for market share.
- The dogs chased each other around the large green park.
- We should trust each other with our deepest secrets and dreams.
- The runners kept pace with each other throughout the long race.
- Neighbors should help each other when heavy snow blocks the roads.
- The siblings argued over who gets to choose the movie to watch.
Common Mistakes and Fixes
- They hugged eachother tightly after the long trip home.
- They hugged each other tightly after the long trip home.
- The cats fought eachother over the last can of food.
- The cats fought each other over the last can of food.
- We look at eachother to see if anyone is listening.
- We look at each other to see if anyone is listening.
- The teams played against eachother in the final match.
- The teams played against each other in the final match.
- My parents rely on eachother for emotional support daily.
- My parents rely on each other for emotional support daily.
- The twins always finish eachother homework for them.
- The twins always finish each other homework for them.
A Quick Test You Can Use
To check if you are using the phrase correctly, ask yourself if the words are acting as a single reciprocal pronoun or two separate words that need a space to separate them properly.
Related Word Pairs
- its vs it s
- Use its with no space for possession, and it s only if you are separating the word it from the verb s.
- its vs it is
- Use its when showing ownership, and write it is only when the sentence needs the verb to be.
- there vs their
- Use there for a place or existence, and use their to show that something belongs to them.
- your vs you re
- Use your to show possession, and use you re only when speaking about yourself as a verb.
- its vs i t s
- Always write its as one word for possession, never split the letters unless making a joke.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is eachother ever correct in formal writing?
No, eachother is never correct in formal writing or standard English. The phrase consists of two words that must be separated by a space to follow grammatical rules and maintain clarity for readers everywhere.
Can I use eachother in casual texting?
It is better to avoid using eachother even in casual texting because it is considered a spelling error. Using the correct two-word version shows attention to detail and helps prevent confusion for anyone reading your message.
What is the difference between each other and one another?
Each other is typically used for two people or things, while one another is used for three or more. However, in modern usage, both can often be used interchangeably depending on the context of the sentence.
Why do people keep typing eachother as one word?
People often type eachother as one word because they are typing quickly and forget the space, or they are influenced by compound words. It is a habit that does not align with the actual definition of the reciprocal pronoun.
